Through periodic MAX Member Spotlights, our MAX team is honored to help our broader workforce development network get to know our members better in order to strengthen connections, collaborations, and practices among workforce developers and organizations engaged in workforce development. Here, our members share insights on how MAX is helpful in their work, accomplishments they’re most proud of, emerging trends they see as affecting workforce development, and more.
Why did you become a MAX member?
To broaden my knowledge base and network within the area of workforce development, while also offering my own past experiences to those looking for similar information.
How long have you been engaged with the MAX network?
1 to 2 years
How has being a member of MAX benefitted your organization?
Mostly keeping [us] informed of what is happening with other partner agencies and organizations, while also offering various learning/training opportunities.
How have you engaged through MAX in the past 12 months?
MAX Minutes, MAX Mondays
How many years have you served in the workforce development profession?
16 years
Why do you serve in this profession? What motivates you or inspires you to do what you do?
I enjoy helping people, in whatever capacity that may be.
What is something you and/or your organization have accomplished in the past 12 months that you are most proud of?
The transition of Wagner-Peyser (Employment Services) and other associated programs from GDOL to TCSG’s Office of Workforce Development and the implementation of the new state labor exchange system, WorkSource Georgia Portal.
What are some emerging trends you see as affecting the job seekers and employers served through our profession?
Traditional hiring does not necessarily match the needs of the job seekers, and vice versa from an employers’ perspective. Today, it is much more fluid in [terms of] what are minimum qualifications and preferred qualifications, almost changing on a daily basis. While at the same time, there is much more focus on individuals having the right knowledge, skills, and abilities, whether they received this through technical training, college/university education, military training & experience, and of course WIOA-funded training opportunities, to name a few.
Is there anything you believe that we, as a profession, should do differently in the future to best serve those we serve?
To continue spotlighting what different entities do to accomplish the same goals I believe we all have, which is to educate everyone on the many resources that are available to help bridge the gap between job seekers and employers coming together in building a strong, sustainable workforce for the growth of our state.
What is a little-known fun fact about you?
I used to be a disc jockey and had my own side business/company performing various events for many years, as I absolutely love music.